A compare and contrast analysis of the attitude toward women in the three main monotheistic religions of today's world--Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
Abstract This paper discusses discrimination against women based on religious beliefs by examining the different creeds of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism and how they affect women. It evaluates the changing role of women in each of the religions and analyzes how the treatment of women in all three religions seems to stem from Eve's original sin in the Garden of Eden. It looks at how Judaism and Christianity have grown more lenient over the years with reforms to the religion such as allowing coed seats in Synagogues and allowing women to preach whereas Islam still preserves its strict treatment and women are considered second class citizens.
From the Paper "In today's world, religions play a much smaller role than what it used to be centuries ago. Still, in many places, cultures, and societies, religion remains the predominant source for norms on human rights, etiquette, how to rule, how to live, think, dress, etc. Although, from a Western point of view, it is hard to imagine that religion would be of such great importance and influence over one's life, there are numerous places where people do not need to imagine--this is their reality."
Abstract The paper examines the persuasion of people using music (lyrics and melody). It focuses on Bob Marley and his ability to influence entire cultures in a political/social movement. The paper shows how Marley's music and lyrics worked as the rhetoric of the Rastafarian movement against oppression, exploitation and racism in Jamaica. Using metaphors to describe the hardships of the political fights of Jamaicans and Africans, the paper shows how Marley established himself as the spokesman of a race and culture.
From the Paper "Some of the most attainable goals of persuasive songs are those focused toward a particular movement's members; such as reinforcing the ideas of the movement, promoting unity, and maintaining high confidence among members. In other words, songs of persuasion may prove to be effective in terms of reinforcing the beliefs already held by movement members and sympathizers. Rarely do such songs succeed in their attempt to reach those who are not already sympathetic to the cause (Sellnow). Although Marley never intended to recruit as many people into his particular beliefs, his standpoint on peace and unity was felt throughout the world."
Abstract This paper explores the caste system in Indian society, focusing on the lowest class of humans, the 'chandalas' or the 'untouchables' who are the mixed offspring of different castes. The paper provides an historical background of the caste system which came into being around 600-664CE. It then looks at the situation of the untouchables who are denied many social and religious privileges and the role the Indian government plays in trying to intervene to overcome this discrimination. The paper discusses the future of the caste system, especially the situation of the disadvantaged.
From the Paper "The longevity of the caste system is rooted in traditional Hindu thinking. The caste system was not born overnight, but had evolved over three millennia, adapting to the innumerable migrations and invasions of diverse peoples, before becoming what it is today (Paz 44). Thus, the Indian government has an uphill battle in attempting to overturn the prejudices of the caste system. Apart from increasing the quotas of the jobs to the backward classes and the scheduled castes, the government should improve their access to education ("Casting" 18). Currently, only 62% of Indians complete primary education with less than half enrolled in secondary school. In order to promote the causes of the disadvantaged classes, education will be a key factor in enabling them to rise above the prejudices of the caste system. Furthermore, with the rise of urbanization and Western influence, the power of the caste system has diminished in the cities. In the distant future, the ideal Indian society can be created?one that respects the essential role of the caste system in endowing each individual with a sense of lineage and identity, without the dire discrimination perpetrated against the backward classes and the scheduled castes."
Examines the ethical codes and practitioner duties of the American Counseling Association, the Christian Association for Psychological Studies and the American Association of Pastoral Counselors.
Abstract The chief similarity and major ethical concern of the three professional associations - The American Counseling Association, The American Association of Pastoral Counselors and the Christian Association for Psychological Studies - is client welfare. The paper shows that differences arise chiefly in emphasis. It shows, for example, the American Counseling Association (ACA) and American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC) focus chiefly on client welfare, while the Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS) sees counseling in part as a religious ministry.
From the Paper "All three organizations are against self-promotion and aggressive advertising for private clients in an institutional/group setting. Client welfare is also observed when counselors use human subjects in research studies. Counselors must "take reasonable precautions to avoid causing injurious psychological, physical, or social effects to their subjects" (ACA Code, 1999), and they are expected to report, without deception, unfavorable as well as favorable research results. Informed consent is the governing principle of research-related activities in ACA, CAPS and AAPC."
Abstract This paper explains the importance of the exodus as a central and crucial part of world history, Christian theology and the geography of the ancient Near East. It discusses the significance of the exodus with references to the Biblical text, showing the Jewish people's relationship with YHWH, their fulfillment of the covenant. The paper also discusses the partial fulfillment of God's promise of land, progeny and a blessing.
From the Paper "There are different routes supported by many scholars, but none on their theories can be supported with evidence.21 As previously mentioned the landscape of the Gulf area has been forever altered because of the construction of the Suez Canal. Scholars are left to wonder if this alteration to the land has forever buried or destroyed the evidence needed to solidify which route was the chosen path of the Exodus from Egypt. The geographical significance of the Exodus lies in the vast distances traveled by the Hebrews in their escape from the Egyptian slave masters. The historical, theological and geographical significance of the Exodus is now clear. The sheer magnitude of accomplishment of the Hebrews, led by Moses, is awe inspiring, and it is clearly the central event of the Old Testament."
Abstract The paper states that the comic book style format used in "Maus" by Art Spiegelman gives a fresh approach to a much-told story of the Holocaust. The paper reveals that the characters being portrayed as mice are seen in sharper relief as human concerns transferred to the world of the mice. The author believes that "Maus" concludes that the failure of so much of the rest of the world to do anything allows the evil of the Nazis to flourish.
From the Paper "In Vladek's world in the 1930s, being "human" meant living in fear and uncertainty. Each day, more people would disappear. If you walked through the wrong door at the wrong time, you could be one of those rounded up that day and taken away. At one point, Vladek sees the S.S. checking papers and slips away, and the S.S. took away half the people on the street that day. He escapes for a time through the intercession of friends who provide him with proof of a job manufacturing goods for Germany, which affords some protection (I 78). This also points to the central motif of the book and the central way in which human beings retain their humanity in the face of great opposition--they do so by helping one another. This happens again when Vladek sees Ilzecki, and Ilzecki takes him into his home to protect him (I 80). In such times, sacrifice comes in many forms--Ilzecki gives up his son to others to raise, and the son lives; Vladek's wife refuses to do the same with her son, and he does not survive (I 81)."
Abstract Confucianism is derived from the teachings of the philosopher K?ung Fu Tzu (Confucius) and has been embraced in various nations throughout history including Japan, Korea and China. China, in particular, embraced Confucianism as a basis for governmental practices and societal morality. This paper explains the main rules and teachings of the philosophy, including the tenant of Ren, "passages of life" and its ideas on government. The paper also discusses how the Han and Qin dynasties of China impacted the religion.
From the Paper "Confucianism is primarily seen as a set of beliefs that form the basis of government rather than a religion with sanctuaries and ministers. Additionally, Confucius never promoted himself as a god and was never worshipped as such. However, there were temples built to Confucius but they were only used to celebrate significant events. ("Confucianism") Confucius had definite opinions about the way that government should be. The philosopher believed that within government ?the sovereign is benevolent and honorable and the subjects are respectful and obedient.? ("Confucianism") In addition, he also believed that the sovereign should promote morality and be of high moral character. Confucius also believed that the key to creating anonymity between the classes was through education."
Abstract "The Last of the Just" by Andre Schwarz-Bart, focuses on an old Hebrew legend of a group of men destined by God to be the culmination of the hearts of all mankind. The account traces the existence of the 'Lamed-Vov' through the male offspring of the Levy family, beginning in the twelfth century - with each of the chosen living and dying their destined martyr's death. The paper shows how the book travels down in time through the successive generation to the generation of the Second World War, ending with the intimate and extensive life of Ernie a Jew, the Last of the Just, who lives through the ghetto and dies in the Auschwitz gas chambers. The paper discusses the author's ability to convey the emotions and feelings of anti-Semitism from each generation, culminating in the most horrific act of all, the Holocaust.
From the Paper "This document does better than almost no other I have read tracing the history of anti-Semitism through the past two thousand years. With the life and death of each Just Man lived a generation of sorrow and a multiplication of the suffering heart of all humanity. The special attention that Schwarz-Bart plays to the modern, and the repetitive cycle of horror makes clear that the message of this text is one of horror, hope and, of course, a warning. Schwarz-Bart has given a very personal narrative that brings to light the humanity of those Jews who have died in the last two thousand years for the simple reason of just being Jews."
Abstract This paper discusses how by exporting the ideas attributed to the Buddha, those who commissioned artworks at the time were attempting to impose their own moral authority on a specific social reality, as well as reinforcing it at home. It shows how a survey of just these few religious artworks indicates that the export of Buddhism first throughout India and then to the rest of Asia did, indeed, carries with it a very strong message of the moral authority of the time.
From the Paper "An even later carving, this one from Borobudur, tells the tale of King Sibi in the lower panel, and makes reference to a Bodhisattva in the upper panel. A Bodhisattva is a mortal who seeks Buddhahood by practicing perfect virtue. Despite practicing perfection, Bodhisattvas choose not to enter into Nirvana, paradise, until all living things are also ready to enter. In this case, the Bodhisattva is attended by reverent humans, apparently protective of him. He rides in a horse-drawn chariot, putting him literally and figuratively above the other humans. Still, one of the figures holds a sunshade above the old man's head. The panel is very likely meant to reinforce the idea that Bodhisattvas are worthy of respect, as they are leaders on the way to Nirvana and selfless holy people for waiting for the rest of humanity, and for the animal kingdom as well."
Abstract St. Thomas Aquinas contributed a great deal to the entirety of Christian Theology both during and after his life; particularly in his writings. St. Thomas, as he is referred to in short, was an astute Biblical scholar who was as devoted to the faith in human reason as he was in God. St. Thomas' tome, Summa Theological, is, literally, the summation of his understanding of theology. In this work Aquinas single-handedly justified and 'proved' the whole of the spiritual nature, the soul, God, and a Christian life. It is the purpose of this paper to discuss the contributions of St. Thomas Aquinas to Christian theology and his impact upon Christianity itself.
Abstract Discussion of the topic of honor and trust found in stories in "Gilgamesh" and "Genesis" 1-3 and 6-9. The stories are compared to a contract whether verbally or written. In the story of "The Flood" in Gilgamesh and in Genesis, God or the Higher Power is asking Utnapishtim and Noel to put their trust in Him and believe what he directs them to do in building a ship. In any contract, whether verbal or written, the parties must honor and trust the other parties involved. In the two stories both men are asked to trust and honor the higher power or they will die along with wicked mankind. Both men willingly listen and follow the specific directions given to them. Whether it is the story of Gilgamesh or Noah, both men put their trust and honor in their Gods and obey the instructions given to both.
Abstract This paper will discuss the book "The Upside-Down Kingdom (A Christian Peace Shelf Selection)" by Donald Kraybill. This book uses an 'upside-down' theory to show how humility, and respect for the poor are part of spiritual elevation in the teachings of Christ.
Abstract This paper explains what Taoism is, as well as its roots and practices. First, it explains the concept of the Tao, then it goes on to describe how the philosophy originated and progressed. It concludes with the main concepts followed by Taoists.
From the Paper "Taoism is one word part of the English language that doesn?t have a detailed definition. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, Taoism is defined as ?A principal philosophy and system of religion of China based on the teachings of Lao-tzu in the sixth century B.C. and on subsequent revelations. It advocates preserving and restoring the Tao in the body and the cosmos.? This dictionary entry does not explain what the Tao is, how Taoism came about, or even the basic practices of a Taoist. Taoism, as a religion does not have a simple explanation or definition, as it is not simply a school of thought but many teachings combined into one. The two books that clearly go into the purpose of a Taoist, the Chuang Tzu and the Lao Tzu, are compilations of many great scholars. In this paper, I will do my best to explain what Taoism is, its roots, as well as practices."
Abstract This paper explains the roots of these three religions. It shows how each has held a predominant position at some point in Chinese history, and each has had its followers. Taoism and Confucianism were the primary religions in China's early history. Buddhism later spread to China and established a large following. While Taoism and Confucianism are largely philosophical, ethics-based, codes of living, Buddhism has a deeper spiritual aspect. Buddhism's spiritual ties, along with its relative simplicity of approach and practice and its similarities to Taoism and Confucianism, allowed the religion to gain a strong foothold in China.
From the Paper "Confucianism has been mainstream Chinese philosophy for over two thousand years. It was a primary religion for the Chinese people. Many hold that Confucianism is an ethical system that is grounded in humanism. The teachings of Confucius form the basis of Confucianism. The heart of the teaching is found in the "Four Books". These works are the Analects of Confucius, Mencius, and two extracts from the ritual collections: "The Doctrine of the Mean" and "The Great Learning".1 They mainly focus on individual morality and ethics, and the proper exercise of political power by the rulers. It is not like many other deeply spiritual religions such as Islam or Christianity. Confucianism has more philosophical roots. It concentrated on the moral and political conformity. It is primarily an ethical system to which rituals added at important times in one's life."
